Lancaster County 4-H presents a Heart of 4-H Award to a Lancaster County 4-H volunteer each month in recognition of outstanding volunteer serice. The purpose of this award is to recognize volunteers who are, indeed, the heart of 4-H.
See All Heart of 4-H Winners
Judy has been involved in the 4-H rabbit program for about 15 years. She is a presenter at many workshops, seminars and clinics for 4-H'ers, 4-H clubs and extension staff. She judges rabbits, static exhibits and showmanship. As a rabbit breeder (her rabbitry is J's Jolly Jumpers), she provides many 4-H'ers with rabbits and extensive information about their care. In addition to her work with Lancaster County 4-H, Judy also helps 4-H in nearby counties.
Judy was nominated by Ken Majors (a member of the Rabbit VIPS committee) and Robert Dresser (a 4-H parent). Said Ken, "Judy is a friend to 4-H'ers. She gives many hours to the 4-H community, always willing to answer questions, seeking out the right bunny, and encouraging the beginners and experienced 4-H'ers in their various projects."
Robert said, "I met Judy when my daughter and I attended a fall rabbit clinic. Judy was most receptive to questions and responded with patience and valuable information. My daughter decided to join 4-H. We contacted Judy for a rabbit and our family visited her rabbitry. Again, she showed rabbits and provided much information. Over the next year, Judy has continued to provide information whenever we have a question about the rabbits."
Judy says, "I love doing workshops. There is something special about each one - answering questions, providing information and giving kids hands-on experiences with rabbits. 4-H is a great way for kids to find out who they are by exploring the world through directed activities. I am very grateful to be able to help youth learn about rabbits and learn to take responsibility for them."
Judy is also involved with the American Rabbit Breeders Association (serving on the membership committee and as chair of the election committee), the Nebraska Tower on the Plains Rabbit Breeders Association (as Secretary/Treasurer) and the Husker Holland Rabbit Club (as Secretary).
She lives in Martell with her husband Jay. Their daughter, Sarah, is a former 4-H'er and rabbit breeder.